BREAKING: Black Sabbath Guitarist Tony Iommi C…read more.
The unmistakable silhouette appeared under the soft stage lights, guitar in hand. And then, with a single riff, the room erupted. Tony Iommi the godfather of heavy metal and founding guitarist of Black Sabbath was back on stage.
In what became an unforgettable night, Iommi performed live for the first time since stepping away from regular performances with Sabbath. Though he’s long been more reclusive since the band’s official retirement and his ongoing health battles, the iconic guitarist returned in spectacular fashion not with a greatest-hits set, but with a passionate tribute to the music that inspired him, featuring songs that Black Sabbath never played.
“I didn’t think I’d ever do this again,” Iommi told the intimate London crowd, a smile creasing his face. “But the itch never really goes away, does it?”
Rather than retrace Sabbath’s classic catalog, Iommi curated a personal, heartfelt set of covers deep cuts and rock gems from the artists that shaped his youth. He was joined by a specially assembled backing band, The Iron Kin, and the chemistry between them was undeniable. It wasn’t about perfection it was about feeling, soul, and raw power.
Opening with a searing version of Rainbow’s “Stargazer,” Iommi instantly reminded everyone why he’s still one of the most commanding guitarists alive. That was followed by Deep Purple’s “Burn,” complete with Iommi’s signature dark twist. Every note seemed to carry both weight and joy a man reconnecting with the music that made him.
One of the night’s emotional high points came during “Child in Time,” a song Iommi admitted he always loved but never got to play with Sabbath. “It just never fit our shows but tonight, I’m playing it for me,” he said softly. The crowd responded with thunderous applause, many visibly moved.
Fans were also treated to a surprise appearance by former Black Sabbath bandmate Geezer Butler, who joined Iommi for the encore a heavy, soulful rendition of “War Pigs,” reimagined with a blues-rock intro. It was both fresh and familiar, like old friends telling the same stories in a new way.
Throughout the show, Iommi looked fully in his element. There were no massive flames or giant crosses behind him just raw lights, real instruments, and decades of history in every chord.
“I’ve missed this more than I can explain,” he said near the end, visibly touched by the response. “No matter how long I’m away, this the stage, the people, the sound it always feels like home.”
Whether this was a one-night-only event or the beginning of more intimate shows to come, Tony Iommi reminded fans that legends never really leave they just wait for the right moment to plug in again.
Setlist Highlights:
- Stargazer (Rainbow)
- Burn (Deep Purple)
- Lights Out (UFO)
- Child in Time (Deep Purple)
- War Pigs (reworked version, with Geezer Butler)
A night of riffs, reflection, and reunion a living legend still writing his story.
